Where do I go?

Not seeing much enthusiasm for MICU applicants from whom?

I have been seeing it on some CRNA program websites that they prefer "high surgical acuity from a tertiary medical center"... I just don't want to botch my chances, even though I think it would be a good option.

syd9895 said:

I have been seeing it on some CRNA program websites that they prefer "high surgical acuity from a tertiary medical center"... I just don't want to botch my chances, even though I think it would be a good option.

It sounds like you already have your answer then.

High acuity ICU experience is what CRNA schools want. Also, you have to put in the work. You could be from a community hospital ICU and know the pathophysiology and treatment modalities from front to back or be at a tertiary level 1 trauma hospital and still be a mediocre (knowledge wise) applicant. If you have a foot in the MICU...start there and transfer if you decide to.

Choose a specialty YOU are enthusiastic about learning so it's not a chore. I for one chose a nonsurgical cardiac ICU (never recovered a post-op CABG, SAVR, or surgical case) but made sure I knew my medical cardiac patients in and out and that spoke volumes during the interview process. Was never interested in trauma, surgical, pediatrics, CVICU, or neuro ICU...but I was at a Level 1 trauma center.

syd9895 said:

Hello, 

I am a new grad nurse trying to figure out what ICU I want to work in. I was a tech in the MICU and I am also completing my senior practicum there. My dream is to go back to school as a CRNA, but I am not seeing as much enthusiasm for MICU applicants. What units would you recommend?

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Congratulations on your recent graduation, and kudos to you for going straight into the ICU!! 

CRNA is an awesome career choice, and it's smart that you're already thinking about how your ICU experience will play into future CRNA school application requirements ?

As someone mentioned above, high acuity is what you're after. MICU, SICU, CVICU are all traditionally accepted by most CRNA schools. You may hear rumors that "CVICU is Best" but that's not always the case. 

If you're getting the sickest of the sick patients, you're regularly seeing ventilators, vasoactive drips and your patients aren't getting sent to a different ICU, then you're in a solid spot. On top of that, doing what you can to get leadership roles would be great to stand out as an applicant for CRNA school down the road. 

If you've already got your foot in the MICU, then that's a great place to start getting that experience!! 

Hope this helps-- cheering you on!! You got this!